PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - A local expert says the return to school, especially for college freshmen, is an extremely stressful time that can set off an eating disorder.

Dr. Susan Gordon is the clinical program manager of the Mood and Disorder Program at Einstein’s Belmont Center for Comprehensive Treatment. She says more than nine in 10 college students attempt a diet, particularly in their freshman year. They want to avoid the average ten pounds a freshman gains. But she says it could go too far and parents should look for.

“Weight loss or weight gain,” said Dr. Gordon. “Their daughter coming home and constantly talking about dieting, constantly needing to lose that five pounds, even though they don’t look that heavy to their parents.”

Dr. Gordon says a trip to the family doctor won’t hurt. But for more information, call the Belmont Center at 1-800-220-HELP.